I think your natural hair suits you! But I understand the problem of poofy, wavy hair. Mine is exactly like that too (and about the same length as well). I used to straighten it all the time, but recently I've become to lazy to take the time to do it, so I just leave it be. That and I don't want to continue to damage my hair.
So if the hair grows out longer, the poofiness will get more tame...?

And happy (early) birthday!! ^_^